Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has announced a major strategic shift in his political engagements, confirming that he will reduce his participation in nationwide opposition rallies to focus heavily on his 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial campaign.
Speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi, the vocal lawmaker dismissed speculation of internal wrangles within the Linda Mwananchi movement, reaffirming his full support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s presidential ambitions. Owino explained that while he remains committed to the opposition movement, managing a campaign across Nairobi’s 85 electoral wards requires dedicated time, coordination, and resources. He noted that the capital city hosts nearly 2.5 million registered voters who will be central to the 2027 General Election outcomes.
“I will still attend Linda Mwananchi rallies, but I will not attend all of them depending on the programme that I have,” Owino said. “Nairobi has 85 wards. It is not easy. It needs resources and work, and I need to focus on Nairobi.”
Addressing political reporters, Owino clarified that his gubernatorial bid does not conflict with Sifuna’s presidential quest, arguing that their respective ambitions complement each other within the capital. The MP revealed that he intends to use his grassroots mobilization networks across Nairobi to simultaneously build support for Sifuna’s presidential ticket while popularizing his own county leadership manifesto.
The declaration comes shortly after Owino addressed thousands of supporters at Marikiti Market during the Linda Mwananchi caravan procession to Jacaranda Grounds. During the event, the MP outlined key policy priorities for his proposed Nairobi administration, promising to resolve chronic garbage collection crises, eliminate municipal water shortages, improve maternal healthcare infrastructure, and maintain free primary school feeding programs.
Owino also disclosed that he owns a fully registered political party established prior to the formation of the Linda Mwananchi coalition, which could serve as a political vehicle if needed. Opposition leaders maintain that the coalition remains intact as figures position themselves for upcoming electoral contests.